New resources for gay and bisexual men to fill gap in prostate cancer support

PROSTATE Cancer Foundation of Australia is set to launch newly developed prostate cancer resources specifically for gay and bisexual men at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Business Association’s (SGLBA) monthly networking event next Thursday.

The resources have been developed by the foundation through a Cancer Australia project that looked at supporting men with prostate cancer through evidence-based resources and support.

Funded by the Australian Government, they will also provide information for gay and bisexual men on a range of issues relating to prostate cancer.

Research released the Prostate Cancer Foundation and the Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society in 2013 highlighted the lack of information available for gay and bisexual men with prostate cancer and confirmed that the needs of men in these groups affected by the disease were often ignored or invisible.

The foundation has stated that the resources are written in culturally appropriate, non-medical language and provide information on the diagnostic process, potential impact of prostate cancer and treatment on their social and sexual lives, as well as possible support and wellbeing issues following diagnosis and treatment.

According Prostate Cancer Foundation chief executive Associate Professor Anthony Lowe, the resources are a key step in changing the inadequate attention given to the needs of gay and bisexual men in relation to prostate cancer health.

“[We are] extremely committed to providing support and information for Australian men with prostate cancer, particularly for those societal groups where existing information is insufficient,” he said.

SGLBA president Mark Haines said it was great to see a prominent men’s health organisation recognise specific needs of gay and bisexual men.

“We are really pleased to be able to help (the foundation) launch these resources to the community,” he said.

Through its Gay and Bisexual Men’s Prostate Cancer Initiative, Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia has established clear strategic directions in its endeavour to provide appropriate and effective support to gay and bisexual men with prostate cancer.

The foundation has also established support groups specifically for gay and bisexual men in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Darwin and Sydney and is in the process establishing groups in Hobart.

For further information about prostate cancer or Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, visit www.pcfa.org.au or call 1800 22 00 99.